HITCHIN: Campaigners have united against an unpopular planning application relating to nine new homes proposed to be built on green belt land.

A petition haas been raised against a planning application that has been received by North Herts Council.

The application relates to the meadow at the top of Gray's Lane and Lucas Lane, which adjoins bridleway and woodland previously saved from destruction.

Campaigners say if this development is approved, the west of Hitchin green belt would be lost, causing irreparable ecological and environmental damage.

Phil Jaguar, who is leading the campaign said: "The plans are to build nine expensive houses and destroy trees and hedgerows bordering the bridleway and vandalise the protected woodland by making pathways.

"The meadow and hedgerows are a vital wildlife corridor and feeding area for badgers, deer and bats to name a few.

"This is the same meadow pictured on our petition and Hitchin calendar with the caption 'even today open countryside is never far from the town centre' – well that will not be the case if these plans are approved."

Despite the petition already receiving more than 5,000 signatures, campaigners say they urgently need more objections lodged with the council, as the deadline for submission is March 30.

"Surely the destruction of this local open space, trees and hedgerows cannot be justified for nine houses?" asks Mr Jaguar, who adds: "It seems ridiculous to propose a road junction at a busy bridleway used by many for walking, exercising and horse riding.

"It is very important we show the council the strength of the opposition to these plans."

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Campaigners say if you would like to object, here's how:

All objections should include your name (address optional) and quote "Planning Ref: 22/00516/FP – Objection". Ways to object:

1. Online: using NHDC Website using this link: https://pa2.north-herts.gov.uk/online-applications You have to Register and Login to make a Comment and specify "Objection". You can be timed out so maybe write separately and copy in.

1. Post: Write to - : Planning Control, NHDC, PO Box 10613 NG6 6DW quoting above planning reference.

1. Email: To [email protected] and quote "Planning Ref: 22/00516/FP – Objection" in the Email Subject.

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